Born on 19 March 1901 and raised in Seoul, he is believed to have been inspired to learn to fly after having seen an aerobatics demonstration by American pilot Art Smith in 1916 or 1917.

Using the stolen money, he traveled to Japan at which he attended a driving school and graduated successfully.

[4] Donga Ilbo, a major Korean newspaper at the time, sponsored An's flights and documented his aviations and achievements.

Tokyo earthquake of 1923 and the subsequent anti-Korean riots may have played a major factor in his decision.

Although the cause of the accident was not supported by evidence, some historians speculate that foul play by Japanese officials may have been involved.